Doctoral Program in Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Program Overview

Villanova University's PhD program in Electrical and Computer Engineering fosters highly skilled scholars through a rigorous curriculum and original research. Emphasizing excellence and innovation, the program equips students with a deep understanding of the field and prepares them for careers in academia, industry, and government. The program's unique professional development program supports students' holistic growth and career success.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The PhD program in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Villanova University focuses on developing highly qualified scholars in the field.
It emphasizes excellence, innovation, and integrity in research, scholarship, and education.
• Objectives: The program aims to provide students with a strong foundation in electrical and computer engineering, as well as the skills necessary to conduct independent research and contribute to the advancement of the field.
• Program Description: The program includes coursework in core electrical and computer engineering topics, as well as specialized courses in the student's area of concentration.
Students also conduct original research under the guidance of a faculty advisor, culminating in a dissertation.

Outline:

• Content: The program covers a wide range of topics in electrical and computer engineering, including:
• Advanced Antenna Design
• Advanced Computer and Mobile Networks
• Advanced DC-DC Converters
• Advanced Emission Control Algorithms for Engines
• Cybersecurity
• Digital Hardware and FPGA Security
• Electrical Communications
• Microgrids
• Nanostructured, High Efficiency Low Cost Solar Cells
• Photonic Fiber Sensors
• Pin Diode Modeling
• Through-Wall Radar Imaging
• Structure: The program typically takes 4-6 years to complete.
Students begin by taking coursework in their core areas, then move on to more specialized courses and research. They typically complete their dissertation in their final year. However, it is likely that students learn through a combination of lectures, discussions, and hands-on projects.
• Faculty: The program is taught by a team of highly distinguished and nationally recognized faculty members.
• Unique Approaches: The program includes a professional development program for doctoral students, which reflects Villanova's commitment to high-quality teaching and close attention to the student, as well as development of the whole person.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in academia, industry, and government.
• Opportunities: Graduates may pursue careers as research engineers, professors, or technical leaders in a variety of fields.
• Outcomes: The program has a strong track record of preparing students for successful careers in electrical and computer engineering.